Excelsior University Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Excelsior University has 6 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, information technology, communications, and academic leadership.

Driven by a commitment to accessible education, Excelsior University provides flexible, high-quality online degree programs across more than 30 disciplines, empowering working adults to achieve their academic and career aspirations.

Leadership Roles at Excelsior University

  • Chief Executive Officer - Nipur Shah
  • Chief Financial Officer - John Pontius
  • President - David Schejbal
  • Chief Information Officer - Frank Azuola
  • Deputy Chief Information Officer - Eduardo Boersner
  • Chief Communications Officer - Erin Coufal
  • Nipur Shah - Chief Executive Officer

    Nipur Shah, the Chief Executive Officer at Excelsior University, directs the overarching strategic vision and operational execution for the institution. Overseeing all major departments, Shah ensures alignment with the university's mission to provide innovative educational options for working adults. This leadership role involves driving institutional growth and enhancing the quality of academic programs offered across more than 30 disciplines. By fostering a culture of continuous improvement, Nipur Shah directly impacts the university's ability to serve thousands of individuals seeking to balance education with work, family, or military service. Ultimately, Shah secures the long-term viability and market relevance of Excelsior University's accredited online degrees.

    John Pontius - Chief Financial Officer

    John Pontius, the Chief Financial Officer at Excelsior University, manages all financial operations and fiscal strategy for the institution. Overseeing budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation, Pontius ensures the university's financial health and sustainability. This leadership role involves optimizing financial performance to support the delivery of affordable, flexible, high-quality online degree programs. By maintaining stringent financial controls and exploring new revenue streams, John Pontius directly impacts the university's capacity to serve working adults. Ultimately, Pontius safeguards the financial integrity of Excelsior University, enabling its continued mission of accessible education.

    David Schejbal - President

    David Schejbal, the President at Excelsior University, provides high-level academic leadership and strategic direction for the institution's educational offerings. Overseeing academic affairs and faculty development, Schejbal ensures the quality and relevance of the university's more than 30 online degree disciplines. This leadership role involves fostering an environment that supports the academic success of working adults seeking career advancement. By championing innovative pedagogical approaches and maintaining rigorous academic standards, David Schejbal directly impacts the value and integrity of the education provided. Ultimately, Schejbal guides Excelsior University's academic mission, ensuring it remains a premier destination for accredited online learning.
    David Schejbal

    Frank Azuola - Chief Information Officer

    Frank Azuola, the Chief Information Officer at Excelsior University, architects and oversees the institution's entire technology infrastructure and digital strategy. Managing all IT operations, cybersecurity, and data management, Azuola ensures the seamless delivery of online learning platforms and student support systems. This leadership role involves driving technological innovation to enhance the flexible, high-quality online degree programs offered. By implementing robust IT solutions and safeguarding digital assets, Frank Azuola directly impacts the university's ability to serve thousands of working adults. Ultimately, Azuola ensures Excelsior University maintains a cutting-edge technological environment, supporting its mission of accessible education.
    Frank Azuola

    Eduardo Boersner - Deputy Chief Information Officer

    Eduardo Boersner, the Deputy Chief Information Officer at Excelsior University, supports the Chief Information Officer in managing and advancing the institution's technological capabilities. Overseeing specific IT projects and operational support, Boersner ensures the efficient functioning of digital learning environments and administrative systems. This leadership role involves implementing technological solutions that enhance the flexibility and quality of Excelsior University's online degree programs. By collaborating on IT strategy and managing day-to-day technical operations, Eduardo Boersner directly contributes to the university's mission of serving working adults. Ultimately, Boersner reinforces the technological backbone that supports accessible, accredited education.

    Erin Coufal - Chief Communications Officer

    Erin Coufal, the Chief Communications Officer at Excelsior University, directs all internal and external communication strategies for the institution. Overseeing public relations, marketing, and brand management, Coufal ensures consistent messaging that highlights the university's commitment to working adults. This leadership role involves shaping the narrative around Excelsior University's affordable, flexible, high-quality online degree programs. By amplifying the university's impact and reach, Erin Coufal directly supports student recruitment and retention efforts. Ultimately, Coufal strengthens the university's brand identity and public perception, reinforcing its position as a leader in accessible higher education.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Excelsior University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Excelsior University?
    Excelsior University is led by Nipur Shah (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as John Pontius (Chief Financial Officer) and David Schejbal (President).
    Who is part of Excelsior University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Excelsior University includes leaders such as Nipur Shah (Chief Executive Officer), John Pontius (Chief Financial Officer), David Schejbal (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Excelsior University have?
    Excelsior University has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Excelsior University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Excelsior University includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, President, Chief Information Officer, Deputy Chief Information Officer.